Get tough on plastic laminate stains. Using the right cleaner and having some patience will make even the most stubborn stains go away. Just follow our advice and you’ll get rid of those ugly stains for good.
1. Apply a baking soda paste to the stain. Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain and lay a wet paper towel over the paste to keep it moist. Baking soda is slightly abrasive and can leave fine scratches, so don’t scrub. Just let the paste work for one to two hours and then wipe it off gently. Baking soda paste often removes stains left by fruit juices and other liquids.
2. For tough stains use nail polish remover. Nail polish remover won’t harm or discolor plastic laminate, but play it safe and test on an inconspicuous spot first. Wet a rag or cotton ball with nail polish remover and rub. Use white rags to avoid staining the countertop with fabric dye. Caution: This solvent is flammable.
3. The best way to prevent stains is to wipe up messes immediately; the longer something sits, the more likely it is to leave a stain. A coating of countertop polish can also help. (Coating products usually aren’t necessary on newer laminate.)
Spray or wipe on a product meant for countertops and wipe off the excess. Years of wear leave surfaces more porous and stain-prone; that’s when these protective coatings can make a big difference. Any coating product will wear off and should be reapplied every few weeks.